Are you looking for delicious and authentic Chinese fish recipes to impress your family and friends? Look no further! With over 1.3 billion people, China has a rich culinary heritage with countless regional flavors and cooking techniques. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey across China, exploring the most mouthwatering fish dishes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic Cantonese steaming to spicy Sichuan boiling, we’ve curated 20 delectable Chinese fish recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your cooking adventure, these recipes will guide you through the preparation and cooking of each dish. So, let’s dive into the world of Chinese fish cuisine and discover new flavors to add to your culinary repertoire!
Steamed Ginger Soy Fish
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of fish with the warm, spicy essence of ginger and the savory umami of soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
3. Place the fish fillets in the steamer basket, leaving space between each piece.
4. Add sliced ginger on top of the fish.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture evenly over the fish and ginger.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sweet and Sour Crispy Fish
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this simple and mouthwatering recipe! Sweet and sour crispy fish is a delightful combination of tender fish, crunchy coating, and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook coated fish for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Transfer cooked fish to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with store-bought or homemade sweet and sour sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish
This classic Sichuan dish is a staple of Chinese cuisine, with its bold flavors and spicy kick. This recipe brings together the iconic combination of numbing Sichuan peppercorns, savory soy sauce, and fiery chili oil to create a mouth-numbingly delicious experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (about 2 lbs), cleaned and scaled
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup chili oil (or to taste)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water and add the fish. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch.
3. Add the toasted Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and vegetable oil to the pot with the fish.
4. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cantonese Style Steamed Whole Fish
A classic Cantonese dish that showcases the simplicity and elegance of steaming a whole fish to perfection, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of delicate flavors and tender texture makes it a staple in many Chinese households.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 2 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
– Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket, and pour the marinade over it.
4. Steam for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Fish with Tofu and Mushrooms
This flavorful dish combines the delicate taste of fish with the savory richness of tofu and mushrooms, all wrapped up in a comforting braise. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and tofu; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
4. Return the fish and tofu to the skillet; stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fish Fragrant Eggplant with Fish
This Cantonese-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of fish sauce, fermented bean paste, and aromatic spices to create a savory and umami-packed eggplant dish. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons fermented bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into small pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Add fish sauce, fermented bean paste, and fish pieces. Stir-fry until the fish is cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add eggplant slices and stir-fry until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Salt and Pepper Fish
This recipe yields a flavorful and crispy fish dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup salt
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fish fillet in the flour, then coat in the salt and pepper mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the coated fish in the beaten egg, then roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat.
6. Place the coated fish on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shanghai Red-Braised Fish
A classic Sichuan dish that showcases the rich flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and chili peppers. This recipe yields a tender, flavorful fish with a deep red color.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 teaspoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili bean paste.
3. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they start to flake apart.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture into the wok and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Stir in cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Hunan Style Fish with Pickled Peppers
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Hunan cuisine with the tanginess of pickled peppers, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy. Pan-seared fish fillets are smothered in a savory sauce, then topped with crunchy pickled peppers for a textural contrast.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup pickled peppers, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch.
3. Add fish fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Remove fish from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Pour sauce mixture into skillet and stir to combine with vegetables.
7. Return fish to skillet and spoon sauce over top.
8. Garnish with pickled peppers and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Bean Sauce Fish Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the richness of black bean sauce with the tenderness of fish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup black bean sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and bell peppers; stir-fry until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the fish pieces and cook until opaque and flaky, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the black bean sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Grass and Chili Fish
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this vibrant fish dish, infused with the brightness of lemongrass and the heat of chilies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, chili flakes, garlic, and 1 tablespoon of water. Blend until smooth.
3. Place fish fillets in a shallow baking dish. Brush the lemongrass-chili mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish Dumplings in Spicy Broth
A flavorful and comforting Asian-inspired soup that combines tender fish dumplings with a spicy and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish balls (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 scallion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, white pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
3. Add fish balls to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
4. Add garlic and scallion to the pot and stir well.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallion Fish
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter with the sweetness of scallions, perfectly seasoned fish. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Place the fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Sprinkle chopped scallions over the top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Golden Fried Fish with Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your fish game with this crispy and sweet combination. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish and Vegetables in Clay Pot
This recipe brings together the flavors of fish, vegetables, and spices in a single clay pot. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fish broth or water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a clay pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the fish, mixed vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the fish broth or water.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the oven.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Five Spice Grilled Fish Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these aromatic fish skewers infused with the warm, comforting flavors of five-spice powder. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a refreshing outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the fish pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated fish onto the prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Fish Congee with Ginger and Scallions
This comforting Chinese rice porridge recipe is a soothing and flavorful meal option that’s perfect for any time of the year. Flaky fish, aromatic ginger, and crunchy scallions come together to create a nourishing bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups water or fish stock
– 1/2 pound fish fillet (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 scallions, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cooked rice, water or fish stock, and fish pieces. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add sliced ginger and chopped scallions to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stir-Fried Fish with Snow Peas
This recipe combines the tender flakes of fish with the crunch of snow peas, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. With its ease of preparation and quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook for 3-4 minutes, until cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and stir-fry the snow peas and garlic for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Return the fish to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Fish Skin Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Crispy Fish Skin Salad combines the crunch of crispy fish skin with the creaminess of avocado and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish skin (any white fish works well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss fish skin with olive oil, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
5. In a large bowl, combine avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
6. Add the crispy fish skin to the salad and toss gently.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Tea Smoked Fish with Jasmine Rice
Tea Smoked Fish with Jasmine Rice: A delicate fusion of flavors and aromas, this recipe combines the subtle sweetness of jasmine rice with the savory essence of tea-smoked fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (salmon or cod work well)
– 1 cup loose-leaf green tea
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jasmine rice, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together green tea, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and brush with the tea mixture.
4. Smoke the fish for 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve the smoked fish atop the jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Discover the flavors of China with these 20 delicious fish recipes, perfect for every occasion. From steamed and braised dishes to crispy and stir-fried options, there’s something for everyone. Try Steamed Ginger Soy Fish for a healthy and flavorful start, or Sweet and Sour Crispy Fish for a sweet and tangy treat. For a spicy kick, try Sichuan Spicy Boiled Fish or Hunan Style Fish with Pickled Peppers. Whatever your taste, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey through China’s rich fishing tradition.
